1st XV kept at bay by the Old Boys

Old Dunstonians RFC 15 v 11 Hastings and Bexhill RFC

H&B returned to league action this week with a long journey to South London; and came back with a bonus point defeat. Old Dunstonians are two places above Hastings in the league and proved to be a stiff opposition.

With the game only thirty seconds old coach Chris Brooks had to call on his first substitute of the day. H&B kicked off, the ball was fielded by the O D pack and Nick van Herpen was injured in the ensuing ruck. It was later revealed that his injury was probably caused by No 8 John Hannnagarth who was following up in support of the front row. Jacob McDonagh replaced the prop and made a good contribution to the match.

The game was a tough and evenly fought contest, the Old Boys opened the scoring with a converted try after fifteen minutes play. They increased their lead with a well struck penalty. Bruce Steadman reduced the lead with two well taken penalty kicks to make the half time score 10-6.

Although the packs were well matched ,Old Dunstonians had a centre who kick the ball over fifty metres, to put the H&B defence under constant pressure. Tom Waring; playing at full back, replied with some good long kicks of his own to return the heat on the home defensive line. However O D's were able to increase their lead with an unconverted try in the corner.

Hannagarth was yellow carded for a high tackle; but H&B did not weaken and were able to respond with some good attacks of their own. Steadmen hit the post with a long penalty attempt. Dunstonians defence held on; but eventually succumbed to a well taken try from Tim Sills. The H&B backs were working well and fed the ball out for the winger to burst over the line to reduce the deficit to four points.

Immediately from the restart Crosby-Clarke almost scored another try for H&B but he was held up only inches from the line and despite the onslaught from the H&B pack Old Dunstonians held on for a well fought win.

This game showed that H&B can live in this league and match any opposition home or away. The experience gained in this first season of London rugby will strengthen the team for future campaigns. Next week H&B entertain Hove RFC in the opening round of the Sussex Cup; Ark William Parker 2pm.

Match Report by Peter Knight.